The JBL Pulse 5 is a portable Bluetooth speaker that masterfully blends high-fidelity audio with a mesmerizing 360-degree LED light show, creating an immersive sensory experience.

This latest iteration in JBL’s popular Pulse series refines the formula, offering enhanced sound quality, improved durability with an IP67 dust and waterproof rating, and an even more dynamic light synchronization system that reacts to your podcast.

It’s designed for those who want to elevate their listening environment, whether at a pool party, a chill outdoor gathering, or simply adding some vibrant ambiance to their living space.

Beyond its striking aesthetics, the Pulse 5 delivers JBL’s signature powerful sound, ensuring your tunes are heard loud and clear, making it a compelling option for anyone looking for a speaker that’s as visually captivating as it is acoustically impressive.

Feature	JBL Pulse 5	Bose SoundLink Revolve+	Sonos Roam	Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3	Anker Soundcore Motion+	Marshall Emberton II	Sony SRS-XB43
Sound Profile	Balanced with deep bass, visual focus	Balanced, 360-degree, clear vocals	Balanced, adaptable, spatial	Bass-forward, loud, 360-degree	Clear highs, strong bass, customizable	Warm, rich, classic rock tone	Punchy bass, vibrant, live sound
Light Show	Yes 360-degree LED	No	No	No	No	No	Yes line lights
Water/Dustproof	IP67	IP55	IP67	IP67	IPX7	IP67	IP67
Battery Life	Up to 12 hours	Up to 17 hours	Up to 10 hours	Up to 20 hours	Up to 12 hours	Up to 30 hours	Up to 24 hours
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.3	Bluetooth	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth	Bluetooth	Bluetooth 5.0	Bluetooth 5.1	Bluetooth 5.0
App Control	JBL Portable App	Bose Connect App	Sonos App	BOOM & MEGABOOM App	Soundcore App	Marshall Bluetooth App	Sony Podcast Center App
Key Differentiator	Immersive light show & sound	True 360-degree audio, portability	Smart home integration	Rugged build, booming bass	High-res audio, great value	Iconic design, long battery	Live sound, customizable lights

Table of Contents

The Evolution of Light and Sound: What Makes the JBL Pulse 5 Shine?

The JBL Pulse 5 isn’t just another Bluetooth speaker. it’s a statement piece, an experience amplifier.

It takes what its predecessors started and elevates it, meticulously refining the light show while enhancing the audio fidelity.

Think of it as a significant upgrade that acknowledges the core appeal of the Pulse series – visual immersion – and bolsters it with superior sound engineering.

Enhanced Light Show Dynamics

At the heart of the Pulse 5’s appeal is its stunning 360-degree LED light show. This isn’t just a static display.

It’s a dynamic, ever-changing visual symphony that responds in real-time to your podcast.

JBL has significantly improved the synchronization algorithms, making the lights feel more integrated with the beat and mood of the track.

Higher Resolution LEDs: The individual LEDs are more tightly packed and brighter, allowing for smoother transitions and more intricate patterns. This translates to a more vibrant and captivating display, especially in darker environments.
Expanded Light Presets: You’ll find a wider array of pre-programmed light themes in the JBL Portable app. From pulsating rhythms to serene ambient glows, there’s a setting for every mood and genre. You can customize colors, patterns, and even the speed of the light show, giving you granular control.
Sound-Reactive Precision: The most impressive improvement is how accurately the lights react to the audio. Bass drops create explosive bursts of color, while subtle melodies generate gentle, flowing animations. This creates a truly immersive experience that blurs the lines between what you hear and what you see.

Refined Audio Architecture

While the lights grab immediate attention, the Pulse 5 doesn’t skimp on audio quality.

JBL has revamped the internal components to deliver a more balanced, powerful, and clearer sound profile compared to previous generations.

Separated Tweeter and Woofer: Unlike some compact speakers that use a single full-range driver, the Pulse 5 features a dedicated tweeter for crisp highs and a separate woofer for deep, resonant bass. This two-way speaker system ensures better frequency separation and a richer sound.
Larger Passive Radiator: The upward-firing passive radiator is larger, contributing to more impactful bass response. This is crucial for a speaker designed for parties and lively environments where a strong low-end is essential. You’ll feel the thump of the bass, not just hear it.
JBL Original Pro Sound: This branding isn’t just marketing jargon. it signifies JBL’s commitment to delivering a signature sound that’s characterized by punchy bass, clear mids, and detailed highs. The Pulse 5 exemplifies this, providing a sound that’s enjoyable across various podcast genres.

Durability and Portability for Any Adventure

A party speaker needs to be tough, and the Pulse 5 delivers.

It’s built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use and accidental spills, making it a reliable companion for almost any adventure. Marshall Willen

IP67 Dust and Waterproof Rating: This is a significant upgrade. An IP67 rating means the speaker is completely dust-tight and can be submerged in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes without damage. Take it to the beach, the pool, or even in the shower – it can handle it.
Robust Build Materials: The speaker feels solid and well-constructed. The clear acrylic dome protecting the light show is durable, and the fabric grille around the speaker drivers adds an extra layer of protection while maintaining acoustic transparency.
Integrated Carry Strap: While seemingly minor, the robust fabric carry strap is incredibly practical. It makes it easy to grab the speaker and go, whether you’re moving it from room to room or attaching it to a backpack for a hike.

Getting Connected: Bluetooth 5.3 and Beyond

Seamless connectivity is paramount for a portable speaker, and the JBL Pulse 5 incorporates the latest Bluetooth technology to ensure a stable, efficient, and high-quality wireless audio experience.

Bluetooth 5.3: The Latest Standard

The inclusion of Bluetooth 5.3 is a key feature that enhances the user experience in several ways:

Improved Connection Stability: Bluetooth 5.3 offers a more robust and reliable connection, reducing dropouts and stuttering, especially in environments with multiple wireless devices. This means your podcast plays uninterrupted, even when you move around.
Lower Latency: While not critical for just listening to podcast, lower latency is beneficial for situations where audio and video need to be perfectly synchronized, such as watching videos on your phone or tablet.
Enhanced Power Efficiency: Bluetooth 5.3 is more power-efficient, which contributes to the Pulse 5’s impressive battery life. The speaker draws less power to maintain a strong connection, translating to more hours of playtime.
Increased Range: You’ll generally experience a greater wireless range with Bluetooth 5.3, allowing you to move further away from the speaker with your connected device without losing the signal. This is great for larger spaces or outdoor gatherings.

Multi-Device Pairing and PartyBoost

The Pulse 5 doesn’t just connect to one device.

It offers features that enhance its versatility in a social setting:

Dual Phone Connection: The speaker can remember and connect to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. This means you and a friend can take turns playing DJ without having to constantly disconnect and reconnect.
JBL PartyBoost Integration: This proprietary JBL technology allows you to wirelessly link multiple PartyBoost-compatible JBL speakers together. Imagine syncing several Pulse 5s for a massive, synchronized light show and an expansive soundstage, or pairing it with a larger JBL speaker like a Boombox 3 for an even more impactful audio experience. The process is simple: just press the PartyBoost button on all the speakers, and they’ll automatically link up. This feature is perfect for larger gatherings or when you want to fill a bigger space with sound.

Powering the Party: Battery Life and Charging

A portable speaker is only as good as its battery life, and the JBL Pulse 5 aims to keep the party going with its impressive power performance and convenient charging options.

All-Day Playtime

The Pulse 5 is rated for up to 12 hours of playtime on a single charge. This figure is based on specific testing conditions, typically at a moderate volume level with the light show active.

Real-World Usage: In real-world scenarios, factors like volume level, the intensity of the light show, and the type of podcast played can influence actual battery life. If you crank the volume to max and run the most intricate light patterns continuously, you might see slightly less than 12 hours. Conversely, at lower volumes with simpler light shows, you could potentially exceed this estimate.
Keeping the Lights On: It’s worth noting that the light show does consume power. If you want to maximize audio playback time and aren’t concerned about the visual element, you can dim or turn off the lights via the JBL Portable app. This small adjustment can extend your listening sessions.

USB-C Charging and Power Bank Functionality

Modern convenience is key, and the Pulse 5 embraces the ubiquitous USB-C standard for charging:

USB-C Charging: The speaker charges via a USB-C port, which is the current standard for many modern electronics. This means you likely already have compatible cables, reducing clutter and increasing convenience. The port is neatly tucked away behind a waterproof flap to maintain the IP67 rating.
Fast Charging Capable: While JBL doesn’t specify a “fast charging” time in terms of specific wattage, the USB-C connection allows for efficient power delivery. A full charge from empty typically takes around 4 hours, which is reasonable for a battery of this capacity.
No Reverse Charging: Unlike some larger portable speakers that can act as power banks to charge your phone, the JBL Pulse 5 does not offer this feature. Its primary focus is on delivering audio and visual entertainment, not serving as an external power source. This keeps the design compact and focused on its core capabilities.

Customization at Your Fingertips: The JBL Portable App

The true power and versatility of the JBL Pulse 5 are unlocked through the JBL Portable app, available for both iOS and Android devices.

This app transforms your smartphone into a command center for the speaker, offering extensive customization options for both sound and light.

Mastering the Light Show

The app provides unparalleled control over the Pulse 5’s signature light show, allowing you to tailor the visual experience to your exact preferences. JBL PartyBox 110

Pre-set Themes: Explore a variety of dynamic light themes designed for different moods and genres. From energetic pulses to calming ambient glows, you can switch between them with a tap.
Customization Tools: Dive deeper and create your own bespoke light show.
- Color Palette: Choose from a vast spectrum of colors or select specific hues to match your decor, event theme, or personal preference.
- Pattern Selection: Experiment with different light patterns – waves, strobes, gentle fades, and more – to find the perfect visual rhythm.
- Brightness Control: Adjust the intensity of the LEDs. Dim them for a subtle ambiance or crank them up for maximum impact.
- Light Sync Sensitivity: Fine-tune how aggressively the lights react to the podcast. If you want a more subtle response, you can dial down the sensitivity. for an explosive reaction, turn it up.
Future Updates: JBL frequently releases app updates that can introduce new light themes or refine existing ones, ensuring your speaker stays fresh and continues to offer new visual experiences.

Tailoring the Sound Experience

Beyond the lights, the JBL Portable app also gives you control over the Pulse 5’s audio output, allowing you to fine-tune the sound to your liking or to suit specific environments.

Equalizer EQ Settings: This is a crucial feature for audiophiles or those who prefer a specific sound signature. The app offers a graphic equalizer that allows you to adjust different frequency bands bass, mids, treble.
- Personalize Your Sound: If you prefer more bass for hip-hop or electronic podcast, you can boost the low end. If you want clearer vocals for podcasts or acoustic tracks, you can adjust the mid-range.
- Pre-set EQ Modes: While you can manually adjust, the app often includes pre-set EQ modes optimized for different content, such as “Bass Boost,” “Vocal,” or “Flat.” These provide a quick way to switch sound profiles.
Firmware Updates: The app is also the portal for speaker firmware updates. These updates can bring performance improvements, bug fixes, or even new features, ensuring your Pulse 5 is always running optimally and benefiting from JBL’s ongoing development. Keeping your firmware up to date is essential for the best possible experience.

Competing for the Spotlight: Pulse 5 vs. Its Rivals

The portable Bluetooth speaker market is fiercely competitive, with numerous brands vying for your attention.

The JBL Pulse 5 carved out its niche by offering a unique combination of sound and light, but it faces strong competition from speakers that prioritize different aspects like raw sound quality, extreme durability, or multi-room functionality.

Against Other Light-Up Speakers

When looking at other speakers that offer a visual element, the Pulse 5 often stands out due to its comprehensive 360-degree light show and dedicated light customization.

Sony SRS-XB Series: Speakers like the Sony SRS-XB43 and Sony SRS-XB33 also feature integrated lights. While Sony’s “Live Sound” mode and customizable line lights are appealing, they typically don’t offer the same immersive, all-encompassing 360-degree light show as the Pulse 5. Sony’s lights are often limited to specific areas of the speaker, whereas the Pulse 5 is designed to be a complete light cylinder. The Pulse 5’s light animations also tend to be more fluid and dynamic.
No direct competitor with the same immersive 360-degree light show: Currently, no other major brand offers a speaker that replicates the Pulse 5’s distinct, full-cylinder, sound-reactive light show with the same level of sophistication and control. This makes the Pulse 5 quite unique in its category.

Against Sound-Focused Portables

Many portable speakers prioritize pure audio performance above all else, often forgoing visual flair for acoustic precision or sheer volume.

Bose SoundLink Revolve+: Bose speakers are renowned for their balanced, natural sound profiles. The SoundLink Revolve+ offers true 360-degree sound, excellent clarity, and a deeper bass than its compact size suggests. Its strength lies in its ability to fill a room with consistent sound. However, it lacks any visual elements, making it a choice for the purist who values audio above all else.
Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM 3: UE speakers are synonymous with ruggedness and booming bass. The MEGABOOM 3 is exceptionally durable, floats, and delivers powerful, 360-degree sound that’s great for outdoor parties. It’s built for abuse and loud environments. While it’s loud, its sound profile can sometimes be less nuanced than the Pulse 5’s, and it, of course, has no light show.
Marshall Emberton II: This speaker stands out with its iconic retro design and a warm, rich sound signature reminiscent of classic Marshall amplifiers. It offers excellent battery life and robust build quality. Its appeal is largely aesthetic and auditory, focusing on a specific vintage sound. It doesn’t aim to compete on visual features.
Anker Soundcore Motion+: Often praised for its exceptional value, the Motion+ delivers surprisingly clear audio with strong bass for its price point. It’s a great option for those on a budget who want high-fidelity sound. While it has an IPX7 rating for water resistance, it lacks the dustproofing and the integrated light show of the Pulse 5.

The choice ultimately depends on your priorities.

If a captivating, synchronized light show is a non-negotiable part of your listening experience, the JBL Pulse 5 is in a league of its own.

If pure, unadulterated audio quality and extreme durability are your sole focus, alternatives might offer a slight edge in those specific areas.

The Pulse 5 excels at providing a holistic sensory experience where sound and light work in harmony. JBL Charge 5

Enhancing the Experience: Accessories and Pairing

While the JBL Pulse 5 is a fantastic standalone speaker, certain accessories and strategic pairings can further enhance its utility and enjoyment. These aren’t just add-ons.

They’re smart choices that complement the speaker’s strengths.

Essential Accessories

To get the most out of your Pulse 5 and ensure its longevity, consider these practical accessories:

Protective Carrying Case: While the Pulse 5 is durable, a dedicated hard-shell carrying case offers an extra layer of protection, especially during travel. These cases often have custom-molded interiors that snugly fit the speaker, preventing scratches and impact damage. Look for cases with a carabiner clip or handle for easy transport.
High-Quality USB-C Cable: The Pulse 5 comes with a charging cable, but investing in a longer or more durable braided USB-C cable can be beneficial. A longer cable provides more flexibility when charging, and a braided cable resists tangles and wear better than standard plastic ones.
Portable Power Bank: Although the Pulse 5 has good battery life, a portable power bank with a USB-C output can be a lifesaver on extended trips or during prolonged outdoor sessions where a power outlet isn’t available. Choose one with sufficient capacity e.g., 10,000mAh or more to fully recharge the speaker multiple times.

Smart Pairing for Amplified Fun

The Pulse 5’s true social potential is unlocked when you leverage JBL’s ecosystem and connectivity features.

JBL PartyBoost Ecosystem: As mentioned, PartyBoost is your ticket to a synchronized sound and light experience.
- Multiple Pulse 5s: Pairing two or more Pulse 5s creates a stereo effect with left and right channels, significantly expanding the soundstage. Beyond that, all linked Pulse 5s will display the exact same synchronized light show, turning any space into a dazzling light and sound spectacle.
- Mixing and Matching: PartyBoost isn’t limited to just Pulse 5s. You can link it with other compatible JBL speakers like the JBL Flip 6, JBL Charge 5, or even the JBL Boombox 3. This allows for a customized sound system, leveraging the Pulse 5’s unique visual appeal while benefiting from the additional volume or bass of larger JBL speakers.
Smart Device Integration: The Pulse 5 works seamlessly with any Bluetooth-enabled smart device. This means your smartphone, tablet, or laptop can easily stream audio. Ensure your device’s Bluetooth is up to date for the best connection.

Is the JBL Pulse 5 Right for You? A Buyer’s Guide

Deciding if the JBL Pulse 5 is the right speaker for your needs involves weighing its unique strengths against your primary use cases and budget. It’s not just about sound. it’s about the entire sensory package.

Who is the Pulse 5 For?

The JBL Pulse 5 truly shines for a specific type of user and situation:

The Party Host/Hostess: If you frequently host gatherings, small parties, or barbecues, the Pulse 5 is an ideal choice. Its vibrant light show instantly sets a festive mood, transforming any space into a lively environment. It’s a conversation starter and a visual centerpiece.
The Ambiance Enthusiast: Beyond loud parties, the Pulse 5 is perfect for creating a relaxed or vibrant ambiance in your home. Use it for a chill evening, a gaming session, or even as a unique bedside speaker that doubles as a mood lamp. The customizable light themes allow for endless possibilities.
Outdoor Adventurers with a flair: Thanks to its IP67 rating, the Pulse 5 is perfectly suited for pool parties, beach trips, camping, or picnics. It can withstand splashes, spills, and dusty environments, ensuring your podcast and light show can follow you wherever you go.
Gift-Givers Looking for “Wow”: If you’re searching for a unique and memorable gift, the Pulse 5 offers a significant “wow factor” that goes beyond just sound. It’s an exciting gadget that appeals to a wide demographic.

Considerations Before Buying

While the Pulse 5 is impressive, it’s important to consider if its features align with your top priorities:

Light Show vs. Raw Audio Prowess: The Pulse 5 offers very good audio, but if your absolute priority is the most neutral, audiophile-grade sound performance without any visual distractions, there might be other speakers that excel solely in that department at a similar price point. The Pulse 5 is about the full experience.
Battery Life at Max Output: While 12 hours is decent, remember this is at moderate volume and with lights on. If you consistently blast podcast at full volume with intense light shows, you’ll see less. If you need 20+ hours of continuous loud playback, you might need a larger, more dedicated “party speaker” like the JBL Boombox series.
Price Point: The Pulse 5 sits in a premium price bracket for portable Bluetooth speakers. You’re paying for the robust build quality, JBL’s sound engineering, and, significantly, the advanced, integrated light show. If your budget is very strict and you only need basic sound, there are more affordable options without the visual bells and whistles.
Size and Portability: While portable, it’s not the smallest speaker. Its cylindrical shape and weight are noticeable. If extreme compactness e.g., fitting in a small purse is paramount, a smaller speaker like the JBL Clip or Flip might be more suitable. The Pulse 5 is better suited for a backpack or carrying by its strap.

Ultimately, if you value a speaker that offers a captivating, customizable light show alongside strong audio performance and robust durability, the JBL Pulse 5 is an excellent investment that promises to elevate any listening experience into a sensory spectacle.

The Future of Portable Audio: Where Do Light and Sound Go Next?

It represents a significant step in integrating visual elements seamlessly with acoustic performance. JBL Boombox 2

Looking ahead, we can anticipate several trends that will likely shape the next generation of portable speakers, pushing the boundaries of immersion and interaction.

More Sophisticated Light Integration

The Pulse 5’s 360-degree light show is a highlight, but future iterations and competing products will likely push this even further.

AI-Driven Light Shows: Imagine lights that not only react to the beat but also interpret the mood or genre of the podcast using AI, creating more emotionally resonant visual narratives. A melancholic song might evoke slow, cool-toned fades, while an upbeat track could trigger rapid, warm bursts.
Environmental Adaptability: Speakers might incorporate sensors that detect ambient light levels or even the colors of the surrounding environment, automatically adjusting their light output and palette to blend in or stand out more effectively.
Projection Mapping: While perhaps far off for highly portable units, larger portable speakers could incorporate miniature projectors to cast dynamic light patterns onto nearby surfaces, creating a more expansive visual experience.
User-Generated Light Content: Similar to how users can customize EQ settings, future apps might allow for even more granular creation and sharing of custom light sequences, turning the speaker into a canvas for visual artists.

Enhanced Audio Personalization and Spatial Sound

While visual elements grow, audio quality will remain paramount, with a focus on personalization and immersive soundscapes.

Adaptive Audio: Speakers could use microphones to analyze room acoustics in real-time, automatically adjusting their sound profile for optimal performance, similar to how some smart home speakers already do this.
Advanced Spatial Audio: Building on technologies like Dolby Atmos, portable speakers might offer more sophisticated spatial audio capabilities, creating a truly three-dimensional sound experience from a single unit. This could involve advanced psychoacoustic processing.
Contextual Sound Modes: Beyond basic EQ presets, future speakers might offer modes that adapt based on the context – e.g., a “background podcast” mode that automatically optimizes for low-volume clarity, or a “podcast” mode that prioritizes vocal intelligibility.
Lossless Bluetooth Audio: As Bluetooth technology evolves e.g., LE Audio with LC3 codec, we’ll see more portable speakers capable of streaming truly lossless or high-resolution audio wirelessly, closing the gap between wired and wireless fidelity.

Deeper Connectivity and Smart Features

The trend towards smarter, more interconnected devices will undoubtedly extend to portable speakers.

Integrated Voice Assistants: While some portables already have this, expect more seamless integration of voice assistants like Google Assistant or Alexa directly into the speaker, allowing for voice control without needing a separate smartphone.
Smart Home Hub Integration: Portable speakers could become more central to smart home ecosystems, acting as control points for lights, thermostats, and other devices, even when on the go within your home network.
Ultra-Wideband UWB for Precision Pairing: UWB technology could enable instant, precise pairing with nearby devices simply by bringing them close, making connection even more seamless than current Bluetooth standards.
Energy Harvesting and Eco-Friendly Designs: As sustainability becomes more critical, we might see portable speakers incorporating elements of energy harvesting e.g., small solar panels, kinetic energy to extend battery life or reduce reliance on grid power. Materials and manufacturing processes will also increasingly focus on eco-friendliness.

The JBL Pulse 5 is a vibrant snapshot of current innovation, but the horizon promises even more dazzling and intelligent audio-visual experiences for our portable sound companions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the JBL Pulse 5?

The JBL Pulse 5 is a portable Bluetooth speaker known for its 360-degree LED light show that syncs with podcast, combined with JBL’s signature sound quality.

Is the JBL Pulse 5 waterproof?

Yes, the JBL Pulse 5 has an IP67 dust and waterproof rating, meaning it can be submerged in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes and is protected against dust ingress.

How long does the battery last on the JBL Pulse 5?

The JBL Pulse 5 offers up to 12 hours of playtime on a single charge, though actual battery life can vary based on volume level and light show intensity.

Does the JBL Pulse 5 have an app for control?

Yes, the JBL Pulse 5 is controlled via the JBL Portable app, which allows for customization of the light show, EQ settings, and firmware updates.

Can I connect multiple JBL Pulse 5 speakers together?

Yes, you can connect multiple JBL Pulse 5 speakers or other JBL PartyBoost compatible speakers together using the JBL PartyBoost feature for a synchronized light show and expanded sound. JBL Charge 4

What kind of charging port does the JBL Pulse 5 use?

The JBL Pulse 5 charges via a USB-C port.

Does the JBL Pulse 5 have a microphone for calls?

No, the JBL Pulse 5 does not include a built-in microphone for speakerphone calls. Its focus is purely on podcast playback and the light show.

What is the Bluetooth version of the JBL Pulse 5?

The JBL Pulse 5 uses Bluetooth 5.3, offering improved connection stability, lower latency, and better power efficiency.

Can the light show be turned off on the JBL Pulse 5?

Yes, you can turn off or dim the light show using the JBL Portable app if you prefer to conserve battery or simply want audio without the visual effects.

Is the sound quality of the JBL Pulse 5 good?

Yes, the JBL Pulse 5 delivers JBL Original Pro Sound with a dedicated tweeter and woofer for clear highs, distinct mids, and punchy bass, providing a well-balanced sound profile.

How durable is the JBL Pulse 5?

With its IP67 rating and robust build materials, the JBL Pulse 5 is very durable, designed to withstand outdoor use, splashes, and dust.

Does the JBL Pulse 5 float?

No, while it is waterproof, the JBL Pulse 5 is not designed to float and will sink if fully submerged in water.

What colors does the JBL Pulse 5 come in?

The JBL Pulse 5 is primarily available in black, with the transparent housing for the lights.

Can I customize the colors of the light show?

Yes, through the JBL Portable app, you can customize the colors, patterns, and brightness of the 360-degree light show.

How long does it take to fully charge the JBL Pulse 5?

A full charge from empty typically takes around 4 hours using a USB-C charger. IKEA SYMFONISK Bookshelf

Is the JBL Pulse 5 good for outdoor use?

Yes, its IP67 rating and strong sound output make it an excellent choice for outdoor use, including pool parties, beach trips, and picnics.

Does the JBL Pulse 5 have an AUX input?

No, the JBL Pulse 5 does not have a 3.5mm AUX input. It relies solely on Bluetooth for audio input.

Can I use the JBL Pulse 5 while it’s charging?

Yes, you can continue to use the JBL Pulse 5 for podcast playback and light shows while it is plugged in and charging.

Does the JBL Pulse 5 have stereo sound?

When using a single Pulse 5, it produces mono sound for its 360-degree output. However, you can achieve true stereo sound by pairing two Pulse 5 speakers using PartyBoost.

Is the JBL Pulse 5 louder than the Pulse 4?

Yes, the JBL Pulse 5 generally offers improved sound output and clarity compared to the Pulse 4, thanks to its refined audio architecture.

What is the maximum Bluetooth range of the JBL Pulse 5?

The Bluetooth range can vary, but generally, the JBL Pulse 5 offers a range of up to 33 feet 10 meters in open line of sight.

Does the JBL Pulse 5 support fast charging?

While it uses USB-C, JBL does not explicitly advertise “fast charging” for the Pulse 5. Charging speed is efficient, taking about 4 hours for a full charge.

Can I control the light show without the app?

You can cycle through some basic light presets using a physical button on the speaker, but full customization and advanced light show control require the JBL Portable app.

Is the JBL Pulse 5 worth the price?

The JBL Pulse 5’s value depends on your priorities. If you highly value a unique, immersive audio-visual experience with a durable and portable design, it is generally considered worth the premium price.

Does the JBL Pulse 5 have a built-in power bank feature?

No, the JBL Pulse 5 does not function as a power bank to charge other devices. Bose SoundLink Mini II Special Edition

How heavy is the JBL Pulse 5?

The JBL Pulse 5 weighs approximately 3.2 lbs 1.47 kg, making it portable but substantial.

Can the JBL Pulse 5 be paired with non-JBL speakers?

No, the PartyBoost feature for linking multiple speakers is exclusive to JBL speakers that support PartyBoost. It cannot be paired with non-JBL brands for multi-speaker playback.

What kind of podcast is best for the JBL Pulse 5’s light show?

The light show is designed to react to all types of podcast, but it often looks most dynamic with rhythmic, bass-heavy genres like EDM, hip-hop, and pop, where the lights can strongly react to beats and drops.

Are there any security concerns with the JBL Portable app?

JBL is a reputable brand, and their app is widely used.

It’s always a good practice to download apps from official app stores and keep your device’s operating system updated for security.

Does the JBL Pulse 5 come with a charging adapter?

The JBL Pulse 5 typically comes with a USB-C charging cable, but often does not include a wall adapter, expecting users to use an existing USB power brick.

JBL Pulse 5